Crystal Griner Throws First Pitch at Softball Game

Lesbian Police Officer Who Took a Bullet For Antigay Congressmen Praised by Trump

Capitol Police Officer Crystal Griner is being labeled as a hero for stepping in to protect Republican lawmakers from a gunman who opened fire at a practice baseball game in Alexandria, VA, on June 14. Exactly one week later, Griner, who was shot in the ankle during the attack, was asked to throw the first pitch at the Congressional Women's Softball Game as a tribute her bravery. Earlier that day, Griner reportedly received flowers and a message of gratitude from First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump when they visited MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

"Many lives would have been lost if not for the heroic actions of the two Capitol Police officers who took down the gunman despite sustaining gunshot wounds during a very, very brutal assault," Trump said, referring to Griner and David Bailey, the other officer who sustained minor injuries during the shooting. Vice President Mike Pence also tweeted out a statement thanking the two officers for their service.

Many people across social media called out the hypocrisy of Trump and Pence praising Griner, who is a lesbian, for her service in the attack, yet offering very little to no support for the LGBT community under the current administration. Members of the LGBT community also noted how Griner risked her life for Congressman Steve Scalise, who has authored antigay marriage legislation in the past. Read on to see a few responses to their praises of Griner ahead.